Sticky Apple Cider Chicken with Crisp Autumn Slaw
A delightful autumn dish featuring juicy chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and tangy apple cider sauce served with a fresh and crunchy slaw, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on Use fresh and high-quality chicken thighs.
- 1 cup apple cider Preferably a sweet variety.
- 2 tablespoons honey Adjust to taste.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard For a slight tanginess.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Season generously.
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil) For searing chicken.
For the Slaw
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded Use fresh cabbage for best flavor.
- 1 cup carrots, shredded Freshly shredded carrots add color.
- 1 medium apple (preferably Granny Smith), thinly sliced For a tart crunch.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Adds acidity to the slaw.
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds Optional, for flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Season as desired.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture reduces and thickens into a sticky glaze.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes until almost fully cooked.
- Pour the apple cider glaze over the chicken and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, spooning the glaze over the thighs until sticky and caramelized.
Prepare the Slaw
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced apple.
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the slaw and toss gently.
- Stir in chopped parsley or chives.
Serve
- Arrange the sticky apple cider chicken on plates with a generous portion of autumn slaw. Serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken in the oven or microwave. The slaw is best enjoyed fresh, but can last a day or two in the fridge.